Have you ever wondered if all the Earth’s animals have been discovered? Well, the answer is no because located in Chile in 2024, a new fish was discovered! This fish’s scientific name is Thymichthys Politus and is a type of ‘Sea Toad’/ ‘Hand Fish.’
Handfish usually measure between 2-3 inches and they live in places with many rocks. The newly found version is described with, “googly eyes and skin that looks croched” (National Geographic), with a bright red color and legs that make it look as though it is walking. The “crochet-like pattern is actually to protect the fish’s organs and the feet are better equipt for hunting than if it were swimming. There is a big variety in ‘Hand Fish’ with previously discovered patterns being; spotted, red, yellow, and pink. Scientists are not certain, but they believe their main diet is small sea creatures like worms.
Since ‘Hand Fish’ is very underappreciated with little to no research specifically about them scientists aren’t sure of their exact diet but believe they consume small crustaceans. According to National Geographic, there are, “over 100,000 seamounts worldwide, but people have discovered less than 0.01 percent of them.” All around us there are millions of new things being and to be discovered. Javier Sellaines, a marine biologist explains to National Geographic, “So each seamount is unique, and protecting only a few is not enough to efficiently protect all the diversity of fauna and habitats they host.” There is so much more to explore and learn in our world!
Unfortunately, the Thymichthys Politus is classified as critically endangered. Even though there is not much you can do to help save them there are a few things that might assist marine biologists in bringing them back. A few ways you can assist are by recycling plastic, donating to organizations dedicated to helping, saving energy, being aware, and spreading the message. Every creature is important so any time you take to help them out is beneficial to you!
